Ravioli casserole, a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of cheesy pasta and savory sauce, is a crowd-pleaser. Picture layers of tender ravioli nestled in a rich marinara, bubbling with melted cheese on top—pure bliss for your taste buds.
I can still recall the first time I made this dish for my friends. They swooned over every cheesy bite, and I felt like a culinary genius. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, ravioli casserole is the perfect centerpiece to any meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This ravioli casserole is incredibly easy and quick to prepare, letting you enjoy deliciousness in no time
- The flavor profile combines cheesy, savory goodness that everyone will love
- Its visual appeal with golden-brown cheese makes it irresistible at any table
- You can adapt it with various ingredients based on preferences or what’s in your fridge
Friends still rave about my famous ravioli casserole; someone even suggested I should open a restaurant!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Frozen Ravioli: Use your favorite type—cheese or meat-filled works best for maximum flavor.
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Marinara Sauce: A jar of good quality sauce brings rich flavor; homemade is even better!
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Opt for whole milk mozzarella for that gooey texture that stretches with each bite.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated enhances the dish’s depth; pre-grated can work in a pinch.
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Italian Seasoning: This blend adds warmth; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
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Fresh Basil: Chopped basil gives freshness; dried basil can be used if fresh isn’t available.
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Olive Oil: A splash helps prevent sticking and adds flavor; extra virgin is always a win.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to ensure nothing sticks during baking.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth.
Add Marinara Sauce: Pour in your marinara sauce and stir in Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Layer the Casserole: In the greased dish, spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom. Layer half of the frozen ravioli evenly over the sauce followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
Repeat Layers: Add another layer of sauce over the ravioli followed by the remaining ravioli. Top with more marinara and finish off with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
With every step, you’re inching closer to cheesy perfection! Enjoy serving this warm casserole alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad for an added touch.
Now you’re armed with everything you need to create this decadent ravioli casserole that’s bound to steal hearts (and stomachs) at any gathering!
You Must Know
- This ravioli casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the soul
- The delightful aroma fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist
- Perfect for gatherings, it’s a dish that sparks joy and conversation around the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results with your ravioli casserole, start by preheating the oven while preparing your ingredients. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions, then layer them with sauce and cheese in a casserole dish before baking until bubbly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your ravioli casserole by swapping out traditional marinara for pesto or alfredo sauce. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover ravioli casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your ravioli casserole is a hit, consider using fresh herbs for flavor enhancement
- Avoid overcooking the ravioli before layering to maintain their texture
- A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top adds delightful crunch and visual appeal
Cooking this ravioli casserole takes me back to family gatherings where laughter echoed, and plates were always full. It’s a recipe that brings people together, creating delicious memories one bite at a time.
FAQ
Can I use frozen ravioli for this casserole?
Absolutely! Frozen ravioli works perfectly; just adjust cooking times as needed.
How long should I bake my ravioli casserole?
Bake your casserole for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F until bubbly and golden brown.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready to serve.
Ravioli Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Ravioli casserole is a comforting and cheesy dish that delights the senses with its layers of tender ravioli, rich marinara sauce, and bubbling melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to impress your family and friends. With its warm aroma and satisfying flavors, it brings everyone together around the table, creating delicious memories one bite at a time.
Ingredients
- 1 (25 oz) package frozen ravioli (cheese or meat-filled)
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 3 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (or 2 tsp dried basil)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in the baking dish, then layer half of the frozen ravioli, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat with another layer of sauce, remaining ravioli, more marinara, and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Customize by using pesto or alfredo sauce instead of marinara. Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.